# XLIII: The Explosion explained — Man and Wife

> Chapter companion for Man and Wife by Wilkie Collins.

## What happens

Lady Lundie reveals the secret of Arnold and Anne to Blanche, who flees to her stepmother's protection in London. Arnold discovers Blanche's note and is devastated. Sir Patrick intervenes, takes Arnold's letter to Blanche, and later reports that Captain Newenden has proposed a meeting on Saturday to resolve the matter with witnesses.

## Themes in this chapter

### Betrayal and Deception

Blanche feels betrayed by Arnold and her uncle for hiding the secret about Anne, leading to her flight.

### Marriage and Its Legal Bonds

The chapter revolves around the legal validity of Arnold's marriage to Blanche and the potential for annulment.

## Character check-ins

### Arnold Brinkworth

Devastated by Blanche's departure, he is restrained by Sir Patrick and agrees to let him handle the situation.

### Blanche Lundie

Writes a note to Arnold accusing him of infamy and places herself under Lady Lundie's protection.

### Sir Patrick Lundie

Calmly manages the crisis, takes Arnold's letter to Blanche, and later reports on the arrangement with Captain Newenden.

### Lady Lundie

Reveals the secret to Blanche and takes her under protection in London, writing a defiant letter to Sir Patrick.

## Key lines

> I know the abominable secret that you and my uncle have hidden from me. I know your infamy, and her infamy, and the position in which, thanks to you and to her, I now stand.

Blanche declares she has discovered the secret about Anne and feels betrayed by both Arnold and Sir Patrick.

_Blanche's note to Arnold expressing her shock and accusation._

> You are a man. Bear it like a man.

Sir Patrick urges Arnold to control his emotions and face the situation with composure.

_Sir Patrick's attempt to steady Arnold after reading Blanche's note._

> I shall take your letter to Blanche myself, by the train that leaves for London in half an hour's time.

Sir Patrick decides to personally deliver Arnold's letter to Blanche in London.

_Sir Patrick's plan to intervene directly._

## Links

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- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/man_and_wife_se/chapters